Christmas and Giving`

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.  (John 3:16)

For the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and to GIVE His life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45)

THOUGHTS: One of the great things about Christmas is the giving.  More is given at Christmas.  There seems to be a spirit of generosity around- a spirit of compassion and kindness.  We want to put some coins in the Salvation Army kettle.  Not only is there Black Friday and Cyber Monday- but there is also Giving Tuesday.  Thirty-four percent of giving to charity happens in the last three months of the year. 
We can easily get wrapped up in thinking we spend too much on others.  While it is important not to go overboard, it is a time to be extravagant and gracious.  God was extravagant and gracious to us.  God's plan was a plan of giving that first Christmas.  Giving Himself and making the infinite finite and vulnerable.  God gave that first Christmas- the gift of life a the infinite cost of His Son.  Jesus said He came to give.  The presents, the giving to the needy are all signs that point to a greater gift. 

PRAYER: Lord, may my meager generosity reflect your great generosity.